KPA awards Sh5.5 billion in contracts, boosting inclusivity in procurement

Fatma Said-KNA

Kenya Ports Authority has awarded contracts worth Sh5.5 billion, surpassing the allocated 30 per cent compliance budget.

According to the General Manager of Procurement and Supply Chain Management at KPA Eveline Shigoli, the milestone was reached by actively involving disadvantaged groups in the procurement processes.

“By exceeding the budget, we reaffirm our dedication to inclusivity and equitable access to opportunities, ensuring that these groups play a significant role in driving economic growth and development of our country,” Shigoli said.

Speaking in Mombasa during the KPA Suppliers Conference, Shigoli noted that their supplier base has now grown to over 7,000, with a significant increase in the participation of persons with disabilities (PWDs), youth, and women.

She added that, when reviewing the matrix in terms of the shares allocated to these groups and their performance contracting, the organization consistently exceeds the 30 per cent budget allocation by the end of the year.

Shigoli reiterated that the initiative aligns with the government’s directive that allocates 30 per cent of the annual budget to persons with disabilities, women, and youth with a dedicated two per cent earmarked for persons with disabilities.

In a bid to enhance supplier development, KPA invited partners from the banking sector to showcase their offers, particularly in LPO financing.

“Our goal is to highlight what KPA has achieved, the strides it continues to make in improving efficiency, and the remarkable contributions of our suppliers in driving this progress,” Shigoli said.

In terms of technology, she said KPA takes pride in its Sap System and the Supplier Relationship Management System which allows suppliers to seamlessly access the platform from the comfort of their homes.

Through this system, she noted, KPA shares quotations in real-time, enabling suppliers to view and respond promptly.

The entire process, including submission and devaluation, is conducted within the system, eliminating previous challenges and streamlining operations, she said, adding that the innovation has underscored its commitment to efficiency, transparency, and fostering strong partnerships with suppliers.

She added that KPA has dedicated supplier relationship management officers who provide hands-on training and support to suppliers.

Whenever issues arise, these officers are readily available to offer guidance and solutions, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience for all, she said.

Khalib Mutangili, a youth beneficiary of the KPA procurement tenders expressed his gratitude for KPA’s transparency and commitment to timely payments.

“We have never faced delays, as they consistently settle invoices on time. For the youth, the tenders have been a great opportunity for personal and professional growth. I can attest to how these opportunities have helped me advance in life, enabling me to develop skills and improve my financial stability to even pay my sibling’s school fees,” Mutangili said.

Micheal Nato, a human rights activist, director of HAKI Kenya organization, and a supplier at KPA, emphasized that the law is clear as he quoted Article 227, Sub-Article 2b, which states that procurement and disposal opportunities should favor groups that have historically faced discrimination or unfair competition.

Nato acknowledged that disadvantaged groups are now being given equal opportunities but noted that some individuals are resisting the system designed to level the playing field.

He urged them to recognize that we are in a new era, one where the law is being followed as it is written, ensuring fairness and inclusivity for all.